PCT Day 138 – 140 Mount Rainier National Park
Stats
Start: White Pass – Mile 2,295.9
End: Dirt Road at Tacoma Pass – Mile 2,365.1
Elevation Max: 6,539
Elevation Min: 3,461
Elevation Change: 22,761 up & down
Walking Time: 21 hrs 51 minutes
Date: 8/18/2022 – 8/20/2022
The Walk
Day 138 – White Pass to Mt. Rainier National Park Tentsite (2,295.9 – 2,318.6)
Day 139 – Mt. Rainier National Park Tentsite to Raven Roost Trail (2,318.6 – 2,341.3)
Day 140 – Raven Roost Trail to Dirt Road at Tacoma Pass (2,341.3 – 2,365.1)
I’m almost halfway through Washington! Canada and then end of this long walk feels close.
As the end approaches the thoughts of what comes next occupy more of my mind. Should I go finish the 45 miles in Oregon that was closed. The closure was lifted a few days ago. Or I could relax and explore Washington for a few days before my flight home.
Do I care about the closure miles? Did I hike the PCT if I don’t hike every mile? Did I hike the hike I care about? Why am I worrying more about fitting everything in than enjoying the final miles?
My favorite time on trail is when I’m hiking without a plan for the day. When I’m flexible to jump in a lake or stop for the day at a beautiful spot. To lay in the grass with new people and share a snack (well only share the food I’m tired of).
So my motto for the rest of trail is to stop stressing about planning everydetail. To stop worrying about when I’ll finish.
I decided not to rush the PCT and line up crazy logistics to finish every mile. I’d rather take my hike for what it is. To slow down to enjoy the finish.
The truth is I could do everything. But for me Canada is the finish. I’m happy with what I did. I’m happy with my thru hike. It’s all I needed. It’s not perfect, but I’m not perfect. And it will never be perfect.
These next few days were classic Washington. Green forests, berries to eat along the trail, and beautiful mountainous views. It was my happy place. And I found a solid mental place to enjoy every moment.
